Traffic violations

Traffic violations

From Pos Kota

During my daily commute on the Jagorawi (Jakarta, Bogor, Ciawi) toll road to and from work, I observe at least 30 to 40 vehicles violating traffic regulations. I mostly see vehicles exceeding the speed limit or following too closely the vehicles in front of them, while some overtake other vehicles from the emergency lane. During a 45 minute period, I see no less than 30 violations of traffic signs.

Thus in one day (about 20 hours) there may be as many as 600 violations. Supposing a fine of Rp 100,000 is imposed for each violation, then about Rp 60 million could be collected each day. Let us say only 20 percent of that can be realized. The penalties collected would still amount to about Rp 12 million a day -- a substantial amount for keeping road supervision in operation and enough to make law enforcing personnel live prosperously. Of course, the penalty funds should be properly and honestly managed.

To make surveillance effective, law enforcement officers should use civilian patrol cars and wear civilian clothes.

HENDRA OTTO

Cisalada, Gunung Salak

West Java